Toward the end of the 50s or beginning of the 60s, a friend of mine completed building a schooner to be used as a charter boat for trips around the globe. Security was a major consideration, since theft of boats, of all sizes, by drug cartels wa a common problem in various waters, as well as the problem of pirates operating off the Somalian coast and nearby seas.

Other than mall arms, we were considering mounting a 50 cal. gun, which we figured would be a pretty good deterrent; unfortunately, too many ports, at that time, denied firearms on boats in their ports.

Anyhow, there should be a international license for all boats/ships
sailing all waters...a international 2nd Amendment.

Only in this era would The Economist even slightly hint that Somali pirates are somehow the victims in these cases of attempted piracy. What a disappointment. I say, shoot them first and only ask questions later, if they succeed in boarding your vessel. But then shoot them again anyway.

Insurance companies have not raised their rates sufficiently high to affect national governments, or more likely are sufficiently pleased with their profits that they haven't gone crying to governments for more serious action against pirates. Poorer countries only send out their sailors against hopes that they may somehow avoid this additional danger, richer countries are more than willing to pay but not properly protect.

I am all for armed agents on board in those several areas on the oceans where pirates are prevalent. There are any number of private companies that are both more than capable and responsible.

to deter is far away better than to be a sitting duck , all security personnel are properly trained, indoctrinated on all legalities. once deployed their objective is to protect lives and properties, unless their is unlawful aggression, that't the only time they use force. verification and confirmation to avoid conflict, any unauthorized or vessel approaching to the security personnel area of responsibility is subject for verification of their identity and purpose, once confirm the given purpose. then they will be allowed to pass

the Italians should not have conceded to Indian authorities leaving international waters and docking locally. This is a big mess: one side claims UN rules establish that soldiers should be taken to military ourt in Italy, the other claims court proceedings should be in India where the victims were.

if this results in Navy and Marines throughout the world to leave protection of ships solely in the hand of private companies...that would be some bad mistake

We will be very keen to see the legal profession draw up a code of conduct for pirates, thus ensuring that both sides in the conflict adhere to civilized rules of engagement. My goodness, just think what might happen if naughty characters in fast boats armed with AK47s and RPGs were to act without consideration of the careful ratiocination of well-padded judges and lawyers sitting in safe cozy rooms far from any danger.